Severe Tropical Storm Noul is tracking across the northeastern South China Sea toward Guangdong province, prompting the Hong Kong Observatory to weigh issuing the No 3 typhoon signal on Saturday afternoon. According to the Observatory, the storm was centered about 710 kilometers east-southeast of Hong Kong as of Friday evening and is forecast to intensify into a typhoon with maximum sustained winds near the center reaching 140 km/h by Saturday afternoon.
Observatory Track Forecast and Wind Warnings
The Hong Kong Observatory issued the No 1 typhoon signal at 8:40 p.m. on Friday, confirming it would remain in force at least until noon on Saturday. Forecasters track Noul moving west-northwest at approximately 26 km/h toward the coast of Guangdong province. While the system is expected to maintain a distance of more than 300 kilometers from the city through Saturday morning, local winds will strengthen gradually. Occasional squally showers are anticipated later in the day, leading weather officials to consider hoisting the No 3 signal by the afternoon.
Senior scientific officer Yeung Hon-yin at the Observatory stated that the storm is forecast to reach the northeastern part of the South China Sea near the coast of eastern Guangdong over the weekend, marking its closest approach to Hong Kong.
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Transport Disruptions and Rail Cancellations
The MTR Corporation announced on Friday evening that more than 100 inbound and outbound high-speed rail trains will be canceled over the weekend to ensure passenger safety amid adverse weather conditions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When might the Hong Kong Observatory issue the No 3 signal?
The Observatory stated it will consider issuing the No 3 typhoon signal on Saturday afternoon as local winds strengthen and Severe Tropical Storm Noul draws closer.
How fast is Noul moving and what is its projected intensity?
As of Friday evening, Noul was moving west-northwest at about 26 km/h. The Observatory expects it to strengthen into a typhoon by Saturday afternoon with maximum sustained winds near the center reaching 140 km/h.
Are there any public transport cancellations due to the storm?
Yes. The MTR Corporation announced that more than 100 inbound and outbound high-speed rail trains will be canceled over the weekend due to the expected adverse weather.
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